President Obama's spokesman is brushing aside allegations by a resigned New York congressman who says he was forced out by the administration and Democratic leaders because of his opposition to health care reform.

Interviewed on ABC's "Good Morning America," press secretary Robert Gibbs was asked about the assertions Rep. Eric Massa made Sunday in a radio address in his home district in western New York.

Gibbs said, "I think this whole story is ridiculous. I think the latest excuse is silly and ridiculous." He accused Massa of continually changing the reasons for leaving Congress. Massa, a Democrat whose resignation took effect Monday, is facing a harassment complaint from a male staffer.